Business Details
32 Years
experience
Experience Sydney's Premier Waterfront Dining
Established in 1994, CATALINA has become a Sydney dining institution under the stewardship of the McMahon family. Our waterfront location in Rose Bay offers unparalleled views of Sydney Harbour, complemented by award-winning seasonal menus focused on sustainably sourced seafood and modern Australian cuisine with Mediterranean influences. Led by Executive Chef Mark Axisa and Head Chef Alan O'Keeffe, our team delivers culinary excellence honed over three decades, earning accolades including Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Hats and Gault&Millau recognition.With a commitment to exceptional service and a curated wine list recognized nationally, we specialize in creating memorable dining experiences for both intimate gatherings and large-scale events. Our dedication to quality ingredients, provenance-driven dishes, and seamless hospitality has cemented our reputation as one of Australia's premier waterfront venues.
Services
Waterfront Dining
Seasonal Menus
Event Hosting
Bar Menu
Takeaway Boxes
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- 30 years of family-led hospitality excellence in Sydney's Rose Bay
- Award-winning wine list with over 1,000 labels and 1946 vintages
- Sustainably sourced seafood and seasonal produce from NSW suppliers
- Executive team with combined 50+ years culinary expertise
- Award-winning venue for weddings and luxury events since 1994
Associations and certifications
- Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide
- Gault&Millau Restaurant Guide
- TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence
- Australian Financial Review Top 100 Restaurants
What people say
Stunning position
Exceptional service
Award-winning wine list
Breathtaking views
Flawless event execution
Services
Waterfront Dining
Experience Sydney's most iconic waterfront setting with uninterrupted views of the harbour and Rose Bay. Our dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor terrace, offering 180-degree vistas of yachts, ferries, and marine life. Every table position is designed to maximize the spectacular coastal scenery while enjoying our seasonal menus.
Seasonal Menus
Our daily changing menus showcase the best of NSW's sustainable seafood and seasonal produce. Led by Executive Chef Mark Axisa, dishes combine modern Australian techniques with Mediterranean influences, featuring signature items like Sydney rock lobster risotto and dry-aged Maremma duck breast. The kitchen maintains 30-year relationships with trusted local suppliers.
Event Hosting
Host luxury events in our award-winning waterfront space with capacity for 140 seated or 300 cocktail guests. Our dedicated events team manages weddings, corporate functions, and private celebrations with tailored menus, wine pairings, and styling options. The venue includes exclusive balcony access and state-of-the-art AV capabilities for seamless event execution.
Bar Menu
Enjoy casual dining at our iconic bar serving Sydney's best rock oysters, fish and chips, and seafood antipasto. The bar features walk-in access and Bertoia stools for spontaneous visits, with champagne service and signature cocktails available daily. Open for lunch and dinner with views of the marina and Rose Bay shoreline.
Takeaway Boxes
Order curated luxury picnic hampers featuring restaurant-quality seafood and seasonal dishes. Our deluxe takeaway boxes serve 2-4 people with items like poached prawns, seafood crudo, and gourmet accompaniments. Available for pre-order with 24-hour notice, perfect for boating excursions or home entertaining.
People
Judy McMahon
Director
Hospitality pioneer with 30 years leading CATALINA since its 1994 founding, bringing decades of experience from Sydney's top restaurants including Bilson's and Barrenjoey House.
James McMahon
Restaurant Manager
Third-generation restaurateur with extensive fine dining experience at establishments like Rockpool Bar and Grill, overseeing daily operations and team management since 2008.
Kate McMahon
Event Manager
Specializes in luxury event coordination with 15 years hospitality experience, previously managing Merivale Group venues before establishing CATALINA's renowned events program.
Mark Axisa
Executive Chef
23-year CATALINA veteran who shaped the culinary direction since becoming Executive Chef in 2015, maintaining signature dishes while innovating seasonal menus with local ingredients.
Alan O'Keeffe
Head Chef
16-year team member with Dublin culinary training, responsible for menu development that blends Australian produce with European, Middle Eastern, and Asian culinary traditions.
Questions
How do I make a reservation at CATALINA?
Reservations can be made online via our website or by calling 02 9371 0555. We accept bookings up to 3 months in advance.
Does CATALINA offer group dining options?
Yes, we accommodate groups from 11-140 guests with tailored menus and exclusive hire options available for special events.
What dietary options are available?
We cater to all dietary requirements when notified at booking, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options.
Can I host a wedding at CATALINA?
Yes, we specialize in waterfront weddings with capacity for 140 seated guests or 300 for cocktail events, including ceremony options.
Is there parking available?
Lyne Park car park is nearby but limited. We recommend public transport, taxi, or Uber due to restricted parking availability.
What is CATALINA's dress code?
Smart casual attire is required to maintain our elegant dining atmosphere while accommodating Sydney's coastal climate.
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